We love to think of summer as the time for sunglasses, beaches and sunshine all day long! The reality, however, for those of us in the tropics is cloudy gloomy days and stormy wet weather, thanks to the rainy season. Be that as it may, the seasonality of fashion is something that transcends geographical boundaries and as such you always find elements of summer trends that can be adopted regardless of your location. So even if we cannot do sunny beachy looks until the return of the hot dry season, we have rounded up 4 summer trends you can adopt straightaway to ensure you stay stylish irrespective of the weather.

Summer Whites

A summer wardrobe without a white outfit is like white rice without stew. The chicness of a white outfit will take you through to the party season when a lot of the dress codes would call for “all white outfits” so it is worth investing in one. Statement Jewelry is a good way to elevate this look.

This summer’s floral is full throttle head to toe full bloom. We are talking psychedelic blooms in bright colours, they are bold and would make people stop and stare. These florals are on everything, even the shoes and denim are blooming, the options to incorporate this trend are endless. We particularly love this summer’s floral maxi, for its easy breezy vibe, you don’t have to worry about what to pair it with, just throw on and go – no fussing. In choosing a maxi dress, opt for one with some waist definition, a high waist definition will create a slimmer silhouette irrespective of how voluminous the dress is. This trends always works well with sleek gold accessories

No look says summer trends like a pair of good ol’ sunglasses. Retro shapes like oversize round styles with tortoiseshell or leopard print frames, aviators and cat eyes are a big hit, these old school favourites are turning out to be the new cool. Take your sunglasses game a notch higher with coloured lenses or mirrored coloured lenses to be summer ’17 compliant. Pinkish shades appear to be a popular choice.

By now you probably know we do not advocate for jumping on every trend out there right?

If you don’t, here’s why we think you should not jump on every fashion trend. Fashion trends are constantly changing, getting on every trend bandwagon can be quite tiring not to mention put a drain in your wallet. Having a closet of mostly good quality classics would guarantee you always have what to wear; here is how you can choose your classics wisely.

While we love to see new fashion trends and usually participate in reporting and predicting them, we are aware that not all trends are flattering on every figure type.

However, we have found the ruffle trend to be quite forgiving and flattering on a majority of shapes and sizes depending on how it is styled.

Here are 3 ways the ruffle trend can work for you

Billowing and Bell ruffled sleeves

These come in different variations, from exaggerated billowing sleeves to oversized bell shape sleeves. This trend is flattering because it draws the attention away from the torso and focuses on the sleeves. If the arms are the problem areas, they are cleverly concealed under large sleeves. Where this comes with a waist tie, it gets even better because it helps to cinch in the waistline and conceals that area with it’s draping.

These are oversized sleeves with ruffled detailing. This trend highlights your shoulders and is great if your lower half is the problem. The ruffle detail draws the focus to the upper part of the body and the lower part is left streamlined and balanced out, as it is deprived of any details that will cause attention. This style is even better if it comes in a single solid colour.

This trend is flattering because it draws the eye to travel along the length of the ruffle and in doing so the focus is shifted away from every other part but that cascading detail. This would usually create a lengthening effect, especially in midi dresses.

Would you be trying ruffles soon?

Let us know in the comments.

https://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/blog-itfactor-what-ruffle-would-do-for-you-blogpost-fashion-outfit-nigeria-online-4.jpg6001190Itfactor_ Adminhttps://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/It-Factor-Logo_200.pngItfactor_ Admin2017-06-23 12:35:512019-02-02 20:23:08This Is What Ruffles Can Do For Your Figure

We love summer for the fun and sunshine that comes with it…’scratch that’ summer for us means new items to add to our wardrobe and this is our favourite thing about summer.

While it might be tempting to adopt every “ItGirl” approved trend out there, the hard economic climes may not favour that much-needed trip to “the abroad” / stores to scout for new wardrobe additions.

So how do you keep your style game strong and up to date without bursting the bank?

Because we are big on good quality clothing that transcends trends, Here’s our scope on what’s really hot right now that you can wear even much later.

1. Statement blouses and relaxed tailoring

Statement tops with emphasis on exaggerated sleeves and relaxed tailoring are the rage, and they will definitely take you from this season into next – look for pieces with frills and ruffles, unusual proportions and sleeves, and flattering voluminous proportions to maximise your style credentials.

2. Off shoulders

We love this trend for how universally flattering it is! No matter your body type there is an off shoulder style out there that would suit you, guaranteed. Look out for this trend in a cropped style with a matching set and you will be spot on.

3. Wide leg pants

Women the world over have fallen for this very forgiving 70’s inspired trend. Whether tailored and full length with fluid fabric or cropped flared, the most fashionable pant stride you need now is ‘Wide’. Pair with a smart blouse and block heels and your style game will be ‘up there’ for work or play.

4. Boudoir dressing

From pyjamas inspired pieces to slinky slip dresses, this fashion inspiration is coming straight out of the bedroom. Slinky slip dresses are a big thing, this delicate and sometimes risqué piece in luxe silk fabric is a hit for nights out. Pair with a t-shirt underneath or jacket over for a day look.

5. Fringe

The fringe trend has been raging for some time now and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. Fringe on anything from clothing to accessories is a go.

6. Shirtdress

Shirtdresses are a classic. It’s worth investing in one because they are ageless and a great wardrobe staple.

7. The Bomber Jacket

The athleisure inspired trend has been going quite strong for a few seasons. Sneakers, tracksuits and bomber jackets are very popular, however, the bomber jacket seems to have taken the centre stage. Pair with midi skirts and dainty sandals for a great look.

8. Slides

This is “The” comfy footwear to wear this season and much later, especially if you’re fortunate to be in a tropical region.

9. The trouser suit

The suit returns with sharp shoulders and a loose silhouette. Lookout for cuts with deep V-necks, and fluid wide leg for an instant hit! Bare your decolletage for that sassy 70’s vibe or wear open with a corset for instant style vibes.

10. The colour Orange/Yellow

Every summer there is an explosion of brightness, for this season sunny yellow, orange and green seem to dominate.

11. Block heels

What’s not to love about comfy shoes? The most popular heels right now are block heels, talk about function and practicality all in one.

12. The Bold sunnies

No summer wardrobe will be complete without a pair.

Surprise! You have some of these pieces already? Now you know you don’t have to break the bank, you are welcome J

https://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Itfactor-blog-Nigeria-items-to-wear-to-stay-trendy-now-and-later-blog-.jpg7501856Itfactor_ Adminhttps://itfactor.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/It-Factor-Logo_200.pngItfactor_ Admin2016-07-14 10:00:332019-02-02 20:13:09The Only Trends You Need To Wear Now ....And Later

As much as we like to borrow from the boys, dresses are the ultimate feminine piece. They are that one piece of garment we do not have to share with the boys, at least for now.

They are pretty, cheaper and easier to style, as you do not need to worry about bottoms to pair them with. But finding the right shape can be a bit tricky at times, here’s how to nail the most flattering dress shape for you.

1. If you are pear-shaped – Try a full-skirted dress

Think, highlight a small waist and conceal larger hips. As a pear shape, your figure is smaller at the waist, so you want to highlight this. You have larger hips; the goal is to keep it a little looser around this area so as not to exaggerate your size. Two things to keep in mind here, highlight waist and keep hips slightly looser. To achieve this, go for full-skirted dresses or A-line dresses with fitted bodice nipped waist and full skirts, preferable with pleats.

If apple shaped, think shapely drapes. Here you would be looking for shift dresses that just drapes over your figure. Avoid overly baggy, shapeless shifts. Opt for something with some structure that goes a little loosely over your figure without totally drowning you. Apple shapes are lager in the middle and smaller at the top and the bottom, so the aim is to create some balance in your proportion. A shift dress with a subtle flare at the hem is a great way to create the illusion of a smaller middle.

The aim here is to add some curves to an otherwise straight figure. To achieve this, go for belted dresses, anything that can be accessorized to define your waist is your target. A great shirtdress with a thin belt will be a great way to achieve this; it creates an illusion of an hourglass and highlights your great legs

5. If you are petite – Try a mini shift dress

The aim here is to give the illusion of height while highlighting the figure. Avoid bulky or overly loose garments. Choose dresses with shorter hemlines to give the illusion of longer legs. Since your dress style is short/mini avoid excessively tight dresses, hence the suggestion of a shift style, except, of course, you want to look like you are headed for the clubs.

6. If you are tall – Try a flowy maxi or midi dress

Taller girls can wear longer styles with more fabric better. Maxis and midis are great for you, a flowy midi is great for when you do not want to look sooo o o tall! 🙂

Love what you see? Run along to our online store to shop similar pieces!

Ever since the stripe trend moved into mainstream fashion in 1917, thanks to Coco Chanel. It has become a permanent fixture in fashion. Year in, Year out, come spring, there always seem to be a different variation of this classic trend. While we love the stripe for its casual-cool vibe, its versatility is what always wins us over. This classic trend is here to stay no doubt, who are we to complain when it can be worn in a multitude of ways.

Here are some gorgeous ways to play with this trend,

1. Play It chic – Leave it simple, and let the stripes do all the talking, pair with a bag and sandals for a super chic and easy look.

It’s no news that we are essentially judged by the way we look and dress. While appearance is not all it takes to move up the corporate ladder, we cannot deny that the right outfit can certainly boost confidence, make one feel more attractive and ultimately impact on productivity.

Scroll through to see 3 easy ways to spruce up your style and garner the much-needed confidence to work your way up this year.

3. Opt for perfectly tailored pieces – Wearing well-tailored clothing that sits well on the body makes a world of difference in one’s appearance. Consider perfectly fitting pieces in a flattering silhouette, and it would never go out of style. All that’s required is simple accessories and great pumps and you’d be ready to bring your ‘A’ game.

We love the matching set trend for how they take the guesswork off choosing an outfit. Great for wearing solo on their own or pairing with other wardrobe staples, you can never go wrong with this versatile piece. One of our favourite interpretation of this trend has got to be the stripe crop-top and midi skirt look. To make this look less risqué, opt for a pair that shows just a sliver of skin in the mid-section, add a statement necklace and a pair of fab heels and Voila! you are ready to rock.

Classics are the most important pieces in any wardrobe, hence the most essential. They are the key to building a solid wardrobe and form the foundations of any good wardrobe. These are the pieces that you constantly fall back to, and as such they get the most use in your wardrobe. While trends are fun, you would find that you still struggle with finding and creating outfits easily if most items in your wardrobe are trendy pieces.

The rule of thumb when it comes to creating a timeless wardrobe filled with pieces that would make dressing-up easier and more fun is to apply a higher ratio of your wardrobe to classic pieces and less of trendy pieces. Some have suggested a ratio of 70% classic pieces. While there are no strict rules to these ratios, there is a general consensus that wardrobe classics be of good quality as they are the most worn pieces in your wardrobe.

Scroll down for our take on where to start in creating the essential wardrobe, and then add a dose of your personality, lifestyle and accessories to continue building your perfect wardrobe!

1. A Well-Cut denim in a dark wash – Darker denim is universally more flattering on most silhouette. The darker wash is also more suitable for a wider range of events than other washes. Consider Investing in well-made and well-tailored denim.

2. A well-tailored blazer – Blazers have a way of instantly updating an outfit. You can throw them on dresses or jumpsuits, or pair with pants and skirts. Invest in classic colours like black, grey, white or brown, you can then throw in a few funky colours for fun.

3. A little black dress – We cannot overemphasize the importance of an LBD in a wardrobe. This piece is so versatile it can be worn for almost any event and styled in a variety of ways. You can pair with blazers, sweaters, button-down blouses and great accessories, the possibilities are endless! You might want to consider investing in a couple of these in different styles. Check here for ideas on styling your LBD. Opt for simple LBDs with interesting details.

4. Black smart pants – Every woman needs a pair of black pants. A good pair of smart pants will take you from formal occasions to informal occasions and can be dressed up with heels or down with flats. Invest in a cut that most flatters your figure.

5. A white button-down blouse – This is another piece you might want to consider investing in different styles, for the simple reason that you want your white blouse looking smart and pristine always. Choose button downs with varying details like bows, interesting necklines or cool little details that make all the difference to every outfit.

6. Classic black, brown or nude pumps – These are you power shoes and they would take you from the boardroom to cocktails effortlessly. Invest in pairs that would give you good mileage, as they would work with just about any outfit. You can throw in a blue, animal print or red for extra flair.

7. A great fitting skirt – A great fitting skirt in a style that is most flattering to your figure is a solid wardrobe piece. Consider choosing this in neutral colours of black and grey. A pencilled skirt is a good choice as it is very flattering and can transition easily from work to play.

8. A cotton plain white tee shirt or tank – This piece can be tucked into a skirt, worn on denim or paired with a jacket. This trusty piece would serve for both formal and informal occasions.

9. A pair of smart flats – These are both chic and comfortable. They will go with most outfits and will help give your feet some much-needed rest from wearing heels, so invest in a good pair. For an extra dose of cool, you can invest in a pair of slip-on sneakers; they instantly make your casual outfits chicer.

We all need a little dose of direction now and again. Especially on days when nothing looks or feels right, though there’s a wardrobe packed full of clothes. Truth be told, that happens to even the most style-savvy – Some days, your inner fashionista just wouldn’t come through. Rather than get overwhelmed, turn back to basic pieces that might already exist in your wardrobe and watch the magic happen! Here are a few outfit inspirations from some of our favourite bloggers to get you started.

3. A Crop Top + Something High Waisted

4. A Maxi Dress + Flats

5. A Playsuit + Hats

6. A Striped Dress + Sneakers

Love what you see? Run along to our online store to shop similar pieces!

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We love the little black dress(LBD) for its incredible versatility; it is one piece that will never go out of style therefore absolutely necessary in every wardrobe. There is no end to what can be achieved with this classic, as a result, we say you can never have too many, really.

Here are 3 cool ways to transform your LBD from bland to glam.

1. Pair With A Button Down Blouse Underneath.

Pair with a classic button-down underneath and simple but ultra chic accessories on your 9 to 5 grind.

2. Add A fun Hat and Sunnies.

Pair with a chic purse and a fun hat for a party-perfect look.

3. Throw on a tailored Vest.

Punch up your look with an unexpected white vest and add bright sandals for an ensemble that can transition from day to night.

What do you wear with your favourite LBD? Share your style tips with us in the comments below!